SportsLine's Projection Model has selected top NBA player props for Wednesday's games ahead of the All-Star Weekend. It recommends betting under on Nikola Jokic's assists and Anthony Edwards' points, while going over on Brandin Podziemski's scoring. These picks are based on recent performances and matchup analysis.
With 28 of the 30 NBA teams playing on Wednesday before the All-Star break, bettors have numerous player prop options. The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every game 10,000 times and has generated over $10,000 in profit for $100 players on top-rated NBA picks over the past eight-plus seasons, enters the week on a 38-17 roll on top-rated NBA spread picks since last season.
For Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, the model backs under 10.5 assists against the Memphis Grizzlies. Jokic has gone under this total in five of his last seven games, including 11 assists in 33 minutes against the Cavaliers on Monday in a close two-point win. Returning from a knee injury and now dealing with a sprained ankle that lists him as probable, the 30-year-old leads the NBA with 10.7 assists per game, but much of that came before the injury when he played more minutes. He has exceeded 33 minutes just once in his six games since returning. As 13.5-point favorites, the Nuggets may rest him more, with the model projecting nine assists. DraftKings offers the best odds at -128.
For Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, the pick is under 29.5 points versus the Portland Trail Blazers. Edwards averages 31.4 points in five February games but has scored over 30 just once in his last four. He went under this total in two of three games against Portland last season and two of four the year before, averaging 24.3 points in those matchups. Portland has won three straight, and the model projects 27.1 points for Edwards. DraftKings still lists the total at 29.5, with odds at -121.
For Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski, the model favors over 13.5 points against the San Antonio Spurs. The 22-year-old scored 16 and 14 points in his last two games without Stephen Curry, who remains out with a knee injury. Hosting the Spurs on the second night of their back-to-back after facing the Lakers, Golden State should provide more opportunities, with projections at 15.7 points.
